The Rent Is Too Damn High: As restaurants continue to close or relocate because of rising rents (see: Union Square Cafe and wd~50), a real estate expert weighs in on why prices keep on skyrocketing. [Grub Street]

Pancakes No More: After filing — then promptly un-filing — for bankruptcy in March, the West Village IHOP has shuttered for good. [Complex]

McDonald In At SIXTY Soho: The trendy boutique hotel has tapped John McDonald (Lure Fishbar) to oversee its revamped food and drink operation. McDonald is currently seeking a chef for the Italian restaurant that will replace Kittichai. [Eater NY]